David Warren Billhiimer, 1955-2000

  David Billhimer, son, husband, father, brother, friend, and pastor, died on July 4, 2000, in Staunton, Va. He was born to George and Wilma Billhimer on February 9, 1955, in Elkton, Va. He graduated from Elkton High School in 1973, and both West Virginia Wesleyan College and Emory University. After graduation, he joined the Virginia Conference and was appointed to Singer Glen Charge in 1986-1990. His next appointment was to the Boonsboro Charge, 1990-1996; then to Salem-Olive Branch, 1996-1998; and then to Mint Spring Church, 1998-2000.

  David was a very talented musician and songwriter, who used his talents in his ministry. One way he used his talent was in the preschool at Boonsboro Church by teaching the children songs he wrote or they would make them up together. On many occasions he would use a song in his sermon to make a point and sometimes he would play for Sunday opening. Also, he was asked many times to do a program for various churches or other organizations. He wrote several songs for the conference and other groups, which he was very proud of and will be used throughout time. He joined the Concord Gospel singing group while in Gloucester and continued some while in Staunton. With the group, David was able to do something he enjoyed and still worship the Lord. David could play the accordion, electric keyboard, drums and percussion, and some brass instruments.

  When David preached, he tried to make sure that no matter what level you were at in your journey, you would be able to understand his sermon. He loved to teach, whether it be the children of the church, a Bible study with members, or a class about something the people wanted to learn. It could be seen how much he loved to teach during the week of Vacation Bible School at Mint Spring Church when he taught the fourth- and fifth-graders. He taught them a song and told them about his life as a teenager. He gained a lot of respect from the children by talking about himself and showing that he had problems, too. David also loved going to Discover God’s Call and teaching the Bible and helping others on the journey to God. He felt he was helping God’s people find their place in this world; also, it was his way of recharging his battery each year.

  David loved his family very much and being with them, whether it was the whole family, going out to eat, or meeting at someone’s home for a meal. He was a very loving and devoted husband, father, brother, and son. He loved to watch movies and old television shows, play on the computer, or tinker with his trains. Some weekends we would go out sight-seeing or find a special event in the area to go to and, on one occasion, we got lost en route but instead of getting upset, we turned it into an adventure. He enjoyed watching most sports and even played for the Elkton football team. On one occasion, while the church’s team was playing softball, he went out into a marsh to retrieve some balls, and came back with mud up to his knees.

  David is well missed by family, friends and church members, but we all know that God had another job for him and he was finished with his work on earth.

— Tammy Billhimer